Lawn Bowling Season is over for this year
Check back in spring 2027 for details on the 2027 season memberships.
Our History
142 Years Young
Welcome to the Paris Lawn Bowling Club, an historic Paris institution steeped in tradition and camaraderie. Our roots go back to the year 1884, when a group of enthusiasts first gathered on the future grounds of the Presbyterian Church on Grand River Street North. Before finding its official home, the club's greens saw fun and laughter on Andrew Baird's front yard beside the Elm Street skating rink. In 1893, progress led us to our present location, as the Paris Presbyterian Church was built where we once played. Initially we rented the land at our current location, and it was during this transformative period that the Paris Lawn Tennis & Bowling Club was born.
In 1928, Reginald Turnbull came forward as a philanthropic visionary for our club. By generously gifting us the land the club had been renting, he gave us a permanent home. In addition to this heartfelt gesture, Turnbull also funded the construction of a clubhouse and all other essential amenities.
Evolution has been a constant companion on our club's journey. In 1928, a pivotal meeting, chaired by Matthew Deans, created a ladies' section, paving the way for a legacy that extended into the 1980s. Our community was further enhanced in 1948 when a new clubhouse, donated by Verne Martin Sr. replaced its predecessor. For decades prosperity graced our doorstep, until the early 1980's when a dip in membership posed challenges that demanded innovative solutions.
Demonstrating its continued resilience, in 1986 the Paris Lawn Bowling Club transferred the deeds to our building and green to the Town of Paris for $1. Bowlers continue to enjoy the game, the camaraderie and the beautiful setting at the same location, in partnership with the Town of Paris/County of Brant.
Continuing this partnership, in 2023 Council approved funding for a replacement building on the site of the 1948 clubhouse. Construction of the new Wilkin Family Community Centre began in September 2023 and was completed in 2025.
With over 140 years of passion, dedication, and community at our core, the Paris Lawn Bowling Club invites you to join us in creating history, making friends, and embracing the timeless sport that has united us throughout the years. We welcome everyone from Paris and the surrounding area to join the Paris Lawn Bowling Club in June of 2026. It will be an exciting time in our long history as we begin a new chapter, in a new building, sharing the lovely facilities and grounds with other community groups.
Location
Entrance to the Paris Lawn Bowling Club
The clubhouse and green are not visible from the street. This is the sign that you will see on Grand River Street North at the entrance to the club. The Wilkin Family Community Centre is the clubhouse. It's across the street from the Paris Community Church (formerly Paris Presbyterian Church). Go to the back of the parking lot and you will see the lawn bowling club. It's right on the bank of the Grand River.
